Hamilton was expected to claim the championship this weekend after snagging pole but will have to wait until the Mexican Grand Prix at the end of the month before having a chance to raise his fifth Formula 1 crown.

"Congratulations to Kimi, and great job from Max too. This was the best we could do today, and it was great that we got to do some racing," Hamilton said after the race.

Daniel Ricciardo spiralled out of Austin after his Red Bull suffered a complete power failure in the 11th lap.

The Aussie was looking good for a podium finish after a solid start, holding his own in fourth behind Valtteri Bottas. The mechanical DNF is the departing Red Bull star's fifth premature exit in 10 races and seventh for the season.

"Unbelievable," David Croft said as Ricciardo threw his hands up in anger. "It's like somebody switched off the lights."